| UFC 122 Preview and Prediction: Nate Marquardt vs. Yushin Okami |
| Thursday, 28 October 2010 09:46 |
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Set to go down November 13, Marquardt-Okami will determine the man next to step up to challenge for Anderson Silva's bout - this is assuming of course Anderson still retains his belt following his upcoming bout with challenger Vitor Belfort at UFC 125. Betting fans know that Marquardt-Okami is an interesting bout, and one that is tough to call. Both fighters are at the top of the division, and both fighters have relatively similar skillsets. The difference here, however, will be Okami's wrestling skills, and top control. Okami is a better wrestler than Marquardt, and it will show in this fight. While Marquardt has the better striking and stronger punching power, expect Okami to get inside and keep this fight in the clinch and on the ground. If he can do that, he's a smart bet to win this fight. Meanwhile, Nate will have to avoid the clinch and use his striking to keep distance. While Marquardt is a great grappler, he will have to resist the urge to play Okami's game, and look to separate when the two do get locked up. Still, Okami's wrestling and overall strength will make the difference in this bout. Expect him to beat Nate up over the course of three rounds, ala Chael Sonnen, in his fight with Marquardt. I don't see a finish here, but I do think Okami will be able to control and punish over three rounds, and pull out a clear decision win. |

Headlining the UFC's second show from Germany will be a bout between Nate Marquardt and Yushin Okami.